Reviews with content warning for Suicide attempt - Abroad in Japan

Really liked it, numerous and quick read/listen, excellent narration on the audiobook. Never seen his YouTube channel before but the book stands alone, no need to be a viewer although I’m tempted to check out the channel myself now

Content Warnings

roswell_publishing's review

Go to review page

adventurous funny informative inspiring reflective relaxing slow-paced

4.25

Content Warnings

rhiannon_burden's review against another edition

Go to review page

emotional funny hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced

4.25

I enjoyed this I would argue the only 2 downsides where repetition and the references to his YouTube channel. I picked up this book on a recommendation from my university as I am flying to Japan in august this is not my normal choice of reading material. However I did feel I could relate to Chris as I am from the same area as him which I found out after a quick google search and I share some of the aspirations he notes through the book I feel these aspect added to my enjoyment.

Content Warnings

starshine1's review

Go to review page

informative reflective

3.75

Content Warnings

franzi_'s review

Go to review page

adventurous emotional funny inspiring lighthearted reflective fast-paced

5.0

Content Warnings

annie_brewer's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous funny inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.0

A great little memoir!

I am planning a trip to Japan and this was a pleasure to feed into my excitement. I had never heard of the author or his YouTube channel before picking this book up and found out who he was once I did a search after a few chapters.

This novel had some very special moments highlighting the magical place that Japan has been built up in reputation, but also some foibles that a holiday visit would never uncover. The interlanguage fiascos, a few extra enthusiastic individuals Chris meets on his travels, and a dose of unexpected culture create a few laugh out loud scenes through the evocative writing - allowing the reader to completely empathize with how the predicaments came about.

I thought it was very important the Chris touched on the bullying in Japan. I did not know that there could be such a high rate of bullying in country in which people seem to embody the message of respect.

I really loved the first three quarters of the book on the adventures around Japan, me experiencing proper armchair travel, but the last quater felt a bit disjointed. The book skipped a few years, Chris finished the program, and some of it felt a bit forgetable.

When it got into the public speaking achievments, the documentary work, and the YouTube segments I became antsy as I was missing out on being treated to Japan goodness from the inside source! I commend Chris on his achievements, I just wish the meandering pace of exploration was longer!

Chris writes excellently in a genuine style, descriptive of all the flavours he encounters and is a master of bringing the reader along.

Content Warnings

More...